Best Reflex Sight For AR: AR15 and Shotgun Reflex Sight Review

Most standard rifle scopes are designed for shooting at motionless targets. Thus, when you are aiming at moving targets, a standard rifle scope might not do. This is where the best reflex sight for AR comes in.

Built for fast target acquisition and aiming at unexpected targets, these sights are popular with police and the army. Reflex sights can give you the kind of shooting experience you have been missing out on. That is if you have been using standard rifle scopes such as 22-long rifle scopes.

Additionally, these types of scopes are usually light and will only add a little weight to your weapon. The main reason you should get a reflex sight is the time it takes to aim and shoot. With this type of sight, you can aim and shoot almost instantaneously.

Reflex sights are used by military personnel in fighter jet gun systems as well as in naval gun systems. As such, these sights have many applications. In coming up with an article about reflex sights, I relied heavily on user reviews.

Also, I did extensive research on the history of these sights and how they have been used over the years. This is in addition to relying on expert opinions. Therefore, if you want to buy a reflex sight, it is important that you read this article to the end. By covering different aspects of buying a reflex sight, I intend to help you with the search and purchase process.

A Quick Comparison Of Best Reflex Sight for AR15

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Things to Consider Before Buying a Reflex Sight

While I do intend to review some of the best reflex sights For AR on the market, it is important that I share with you the factors that led me to settle on the sights below. Below are the main factors I relied upon when choosing sights to place on this list.

Note: If you have a Glock pistol and want to buy the best sights for Glock 43, then read the linked post.

Durability

The first thing I look for whenever I am buying any kind of tool is the material it is made from. Therefore, the first thing I considered was how durable the different sights were. Irrespective of cost, a reflex sight should be durable and tough enough to withstand harsh weather, like what we said in our single-pin bow sight reviews. In particular, I advise against buying a sight that is neither shockproof nor waterproof. The last thing you want is to buy a sight that will crack or get damaged after a few days of use.

Battery Life

Reflex sights use batteries. Thus, it is important to consider the battery life of a reflex sight. Sights that use LEDs consume less energy and can go for up to 1000 hours. When choosing the sights for my list, each one’s battery life.

Housing

When it comes to housing, reflex sights can be divided into two: open style and tube style. The category you settle on depends on your preference. Tube-style sights are similar to optical scopes and allow for easy installation of protective covers. On the other hand, the open style has an open window design without any covers. In this article, I have reviewed both types.

Accuracy

Accuracy is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a reflex sight. Since these sights are designed for rapid fire, shooting accuracy is key. I relied on user reviews and my own personal experiences in evaluating accuracy.

Top 10 Best Reflex Sights For AR and AR 15 In the Market

Best Reflex Sight For AR15: Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight

Sightmark is probably the company that comes to mind when you think about red dot sights. And the company added another sight to its enviable list of reflex sights in 2014. Dubbed the Ultra Shot M-Spec, this sight has quite the list of features.

Since I am a big fan of the Texas manufacturer, I was probably one of the first people to buy this sight. I have been using it on my AR 15 since 2014, and I am more than pleased with it. And with a battery life of 1000 hours and digital switch controls, what’s not to love?

 Though I use my Shot M-Spec on my AR15, I have used it on other rifles as well. And I am proud to say that it maintains its exceptional qualities even on a .50 caliber recoil rifle.

Features

1. Magnesium alloy housing: for a sight that in affordable price tag, the magnesium construction of this sight is very good, if not great.
2. The sight is capable of surviving everyday nocks and falls.
3. Digital switch controls: Now, this is the feature that puts this sight a class above the rest. With the digital control, it is easy to adjust the sight to any light conditions. The sight has six lightness adjustments for daytime use as well as for nighttime use
4. 1X magnification: The 1X magnification is perfect for close-range shooting, which the AR 15 rifle is designed for.
5. 65 MOC Outer Circle: This outer circle allows for easy and fast acquisition of targets
6. 2MOA dot: While this sight is great for close-range firing, its 2MOA dot is visible from considerably long distances.

Pros

• The sight has an impressively long battery life
• This sight Weighing only 8 ounces; it is lightweight
• It is reasonably priced at a sight with its features
• It can be used during the day as well as at night
• It can be used on rifles as well as on a shotgun
• It is waterproof and can survive being immersed in up to 40 feet of water.

Cons

• It is not fogproof
• The reticle is single-colored

Verdict

Considering its price tag and its features, this sightmark is worth buying. Well, if you own an AR 15 and are on a strict budget, this is a scope that I highly recommend. I dare say it is the best reflex sight for AR15. However, it is not only restricted to the AR 15, as I have found that it can be used on shotguns as well.

Best Reflex Sight For Shotgun: Trijicon RMR 6.5 MOA

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When you have options such as the Sightmark M-Spec, are pricier reflex sights such as the Trijicon RMR worth buying? This is the question I sought to answer when I tested one of my hunting buddies, Trijicon RMR 6.5 sight.

While its unique design gives it a rather premium look, it is the sight’s targeting mechanism I was more interested in. I tested this scope in different light conditions, and it performed exceptionally well.

Largely thanks to its auto brightness adjustment feature. In regards to construction and weight, I found it to be very lightweight and very well made. The multi-coated lens looked brighter than that of my sightmark.

Features

• Auto brightness: This feature changes brightness automatically depending on light conditions. This provides a great and fast target acquisition, especially when you are moving through different light conditions, such as indoors and outdoors.
• Multi-coated lenses: the lenses on this sight provide a truly satisfactory light transmission
• Aluminum construction: The aluminum construction not only makes it durable but also lightweight. Also, the unique arc design of the housing adds to its durability.
• Adjustable windage and elevation: You can adjust the windage and elevation without requiring any tools

Pros

• Works great in different light conditions
• Can withstand harsh weather conditions
• It is a very durable sight
• The 6.5 MOA with LED with 8 brightness settings is very clear
• It is easy to adjust the windage and elevation as well as the brightness levels

Cons

• It needs to be re-sighted every time you change the battery
• It is quite expensive

Verdict

While its price might be a turn-off for some, when you consider its features, it is worth it. In particular, auto brightness adjustment makes it ideal for tactical use. In fact, this sight is a preferred choice for many law enforcement agencies.

Also, this sight is not limited to one rifle and can be used on shotguns, pistols, rifles, you name it. Thus, for all intents and purposes, it deserves the title of the best reflex sight for the money.

Best Reflex Sight For Shotgun and AR15s: Vortex Optics Sparc 2 Red Dot MOA

At first glance, it is hard to imagine that the Vortex Optics Sparc 2 Red Dot MOA falls in an affordable price tag. Its elegant design and sophisticated look make it look like a high-end sight from EOTECH or Leopold.

Unlike other sights in its price tag, this Vortex creation boasts of an aluminum construction. And that’s not all; it is also compatible with an almost endless list of firearms, from AR 15s and AR 22s to the H&R 1871 shotgun. The lenses on this sight are exceptionally clear and offer plenty of brightness. In this regard, the scope works well in all light conditions.

Features

• Aluminum construction: The aluminum construction is responsible for the 6.4-ounce weight of this sight. With such a weight, you will feel like you have yet to add a sight to your rifle.
• Auto-shut-off feature: the sight turns itself off after 12 hours, which goes a long way in ensuring you get more battery time.
• Mounting bases of varying heights: The secret to the sight’s compatibility with a wide array of guns is this feature. With it, it is easy to mount it on rifles with an inline design, as well as those with a lower comb, such as AK 47s and shotguns.
• 2 MOA Dot: This dot is visible and clear and will aid you in fast acquisition of targets

Pros

• The sight can last up to 300 hours of use in the brightest setting and 1000 hours in the lowest setting.
• It can be used on a wide array of firearms
• It comes with removable lens covers for added protection
• The aluminum housing is waterproof
• The sight’s exterior coating is anti-reflective

Cons

• The red dot may appear to have some sort of pixelation
• The 12 hours auto shut-off feature might not appeal to some

Verdict

All things considered, this Vortex model is a great piece of optical hardware and deserves to be on this list. Not only is it reasonably priced, but it also has a premium feel and looks. But more importantly, it is very lightweight and durable and can withstand the occasional fall or nock.

Burris 300235 Fastfire III No Mount 3 MOA Sight

If you are looking for the best reflex sight for Glock 19, then you have found it. The Burris 300235 Fastfire is perfectly designed for handguns. You can choose between the no-mount version and the Picatinny rail version. This sight is true to its name as it provides a quick target acquisition with exceptional accuracy.

One of the things I love about this sight is the unlimited eye relief. There are many reasons why this sight made it on my list. However, the main is its construction. There are very few sights in the Fastfire’s price range that have better construction.

Features

• Stainless steel, bronze, and anodized aluminum construction: As I have already stated, there are very few sights that have a better construction. This sight is not only durable, but it is also lightweight.
• Scratch and shock-resistant lens: To add to its quality of construction, it is fitted with a scratch-resistant lens. This, combined with its housing, means it can take whatever abuse you throw at it. Also, it can handle the recoil of most guns.
• Three brightness settings: thanks to its brightness settings, this sight works well in different light conditions
• Lithium battery powered: Powered by a lithium battery, this sight can last for up to 5 years under normal circumstances.

Pros

• It can handle recoil impressively
• It is very well made and can withstand regular abuse
• Comes with an unlimited eye relief
• It works best with handguns but can also be used on other guns
• It is parallax-free

Cons

• There is no auto shut-off feature
• The buttons feel a bit small

Verdict

This Burris model is great for handguns. However, it can also be used on other rifles, including shotguns. Additionally, it is very well-priced and offers the kind of tactical precision and accuracy you would expect from high-end sights. Therefore, it is one sight that comes highly recommended by me.

Vortex Razor Red Dot Sight

One of the lightest reflex sights I have ever used is the Vortex Razor Red Dot sight. Weighing only 1.4 ounces, this sight will add nothing to the overall weight of your gun. Apart from being one of the lightest sights on the market, it is also of exceptional quality.

But what I really liked about it is its emphasis on protection. It takes more than normal abuse to get this sight damaged. Everything from its housing to its lens is constructed from high-quality materials. In particular, its housing is made of the same aluminum used to make aircraft. Its matte finish is anti-glare; thus, apart from looking good, this sight will not reflect away your location.

Features

• XR Antireflective lens coating: This coating, which is found in most Vortex optics, improves light transmission and prevents the annoyance of glare
• 3 MOA Red dot: This dot is visible, and the intensity of its red color can be adjusted, making it visible in varying light conditions.
• Aluminum construction: the aluminum construction is responsible for this sight’s lightweight and durability
• O-ring seal: The o-ring seal on this sight makes it completely waterproof and dustproof

Pros

• Comes with an unlimited eye relief
• Has a 6-hour automatic shut-off feature that conserves energy
• The battery can last up to 150 hours of continued use
• It is free of parallax
• It is a lightweight sight
• It can be used in a variety of firearms

Cons

• The dot is single-colored
• You need a locking screw to adjust windage and elevation

Verdict

The Vortex Razor Red dot sight has everything you need from a red dot sight. The Vortex Red dot I tested performed very well. In fact, I would rank its performance with that of pricier models such as the Trijicon RMR. Thus, it is a great sight that will survive almost any kind of weather it encounters.

EOTech 512.A65 Tactical HOLOgraphic AA Batteries Weapon Sight

No list of the best reflex sight would be complete without the EOTech 512.A65 Tactical Holographic sight. After all, this is the sight you will find attached to most people’s weapons, and for good reasons.

I recently got to test this popular Holographic sight, and I have to say, I can understand why it is the go-to sight for many. My first impressions of it are that it is very easy to mount and looks very well made. I was also impressed with its field of view.

Looking through the sight made me realize that its field of view was wider than most sights I have used. And unlike other sights, this one is powered by two AA batteries that give you 1000 hours of use.

Features

• 65 MOA circle: This circle has a target acquisition that is faster than that of most red dot sights I have used
• Parallax-free magnification: This allows for aiming at targets with both eyes open, which is really useful when hunting
• Two AA batteries: Powered by two AA batteries, this sight can provide you with up to 1000 hours of use. Also, these batteries do not corrode over like their alkaline counterparts
• Passive field of view: Apart from being wider than the field of view of most red dot sights, the field of view on this sight is also passive. This means there is no light emitted, which helps ensure you are invisible to your prey.

Pros

• Offers up to 1000 hours of battery life
• Uses lithium batteries, which last longer than alkaline batteries
• It is super bright for after-dusk use
• It is easy to mount
• It is lightweight and durable

Cons

• It is not ideal for nighttime use
• The dot is a single-color

Verdict

The many people who use this EOTech sight will confess that it is one of the best and easiest to use. More importantly, it is not priced in the same way as most EOTech sights. Therefore, you get the same quality that EOTech is known for at a reasonable price. And while it is less affordable than others on this list, it is still worth its price tag.

Sightmark Ultra Shot Pro Spec Sight NV QD

Sightmark is known for producing affordable optics, and the Ultra Shot Pro Spec Sight is no exception. It is for this reason that I decided to buy myself the Ultra Shot Pro Spec. Its affordability aside, this reflex sight is a very good sight.

To start with, it comes with multiple brightness settings, which I find to be very useful. In addition to this, it took me only a short time to mount it on my rifle. And neither did I have any trouble zeroing the sight. Basically, this sight proved to be the best cheap reflex sight. Its price and features earn it a place on my list.

Features

• Interlock internal locking mechanism: Apart from being easy to zero, this sight also holds zero very well, thanks to this locking mechanism
• Aluminum housing: It is surprising to find sight in this price range with aluminum housing, but that is what this Sightmark has. The aluminum housing gives it its durability and is lightweight.
• Side mounted laser: Another feature not found at this price point, the mounted laser improves accuracy, especially at close distances
• Reticle with 4 patterns: This unique reticle gives you a variety of customization options to choose from.

Pros

• It is very well priced at a sight with its features
• It boasts a generous field of view
• It consumes low power
• It comes with adjustable reticle brightness for use in different light conditions.
• It is easy to use, attach, and detach

Cons

• It lacks a night vision mode
• Though it consumes low power, its battery life could be better

Verdict

While there is no denying its 25 hours of battery life could do with some improvement, this sightmark sight is still a great sight for its price. Furthermore, I believe that it performed better than some other sights in its price point. Therefore, it is well worth it.

Conclusion

There are many types of reflex sights out there, and some scopes that are advertised as reflex sights. This review will be useful to avoid the misfortune of buying a normal scope masquerading as a reflex sight. The sights on this list have what it takes to be the best reflex sight or the best reflex sight for the shotgun. Therefore, it is my hope that this article has been of use to you.